Genetic Link to Overeating in Dogs and Humans

Scientists in the UK have made an important discovery about why some dogs and humans tend to overeat. They found a specific gene that affects how our brains control hunger.

The researchers studied 250 Labrador dogs and found that changes in a gene called DENND1B were common in overweight dogs. Interestingly, when they looked at human genetic information, they found the same gene was linked to higher body weight in people too.

This gene interferes with signals in the brain that tell us when we've had enough to eat. As a result, some dogs and people with this genetic change feel hungry more often and find it harder to stop eating. Dr. Eleanor Raffan, who led the study, explained that this discovery shows that being overweight isn't simply about lack of willpower.

The findings could help develop new ways to treat obesity in the future. It also highlights that some individuals, both dogs and humans, have to work much harder to maintain a healthy weight due to their genetic makeup.